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Photo: Santa Cruz Beach by Uwe Nassal (CC BY-SA 3.0) License

Lighthouse Field State Beach

State park · Santa Cruz, California

Cool water — ease in carefully

Use caution

Cool water — ease in carefully: water temperature is 66°F, cool enough to cause cold-water shock on a sudden entry.

  • Water temp 66°F (19°C)

Live data from NOAA buoy 46236 (14.1 mi away), as of Oct 20, 8:00 AM UTC.

Why, sources & official advisories
  • Water temperature is 66°F, cool enough to cause cold-water shock on a sudden entry. — NOAA buoy 46236, as of Oct 20, 8:00 AM UTC
  • No official beach advisory posted (California Water Boards — FHAB Reports checked).

Official advisories

Checked against California Water Boards — FHAB Reports — no advisory posted.

Get an email when it’s warm enough

It’s 66°F at Lighthouse Field State Beach now. We check the water daily and email you once when it reaches your temperature.

Cool todayPicnic tablesPublic restroomWheelchair accessible entranceWheelchair accessible parking lot

Iconic spot with a lighthouse offers a variety of vistas & pathways for dog walking & strolling.

Weather at Lighthouse Field State Beach

56°F, Overcast · H 69° / L 53° · 13% chance of rain
H: 69° L: 53°
Overcast
Overcast
56°
|
Feels like 55°
Precipitation
13%
Humidity
74%
Wind
2 mph
UV Index
0
12 AM
Overcast
57°
3 AM
Overcast
56°
6 AM
Overcast
54°
9 AM
Overcast
58°
12 PM
Overcast
67°
3 PM
Overcast
69°
6 PM
Overcast
64°
9 PM
Overcast
59°

Frequently asked questions

Where is Lighthouse Field State Beach?
Lighthouse Field State Beach is a state park in Santa Cruz, California.
What is the water temperature at Lighthouse Field State Beach?
As of October 20, 2026, the water temperature at Lighthouse Field State Beach in Santa Cruz, California is 66°F (19°C), measured by NOAA buoy 46236, 14.1 miles away.
Can you swim at Lighthouse Field State Beach?
Cool water — ease in carefully: water temperature is 66°F, cool enough to cause cold-water shock on a sudden entry. Checked October 20, 2026.
How is Lighthouse Field State Beach rated?
Lighthouse Field State Beach in Santa Cruz, California has an average visitor rating of 4.7 out of 5, based on 3860 reviews.

Location & Contact

Santa Cruz, CA 95060

Santa Cruz, California 95060

💡 Best times & visiting tips
  • ›Weekday mornings (8–10 AM) are typically less crowded
  • ›Check the forecast 2–3 days ahead for best planning
  • ›Avoid holiday weekends for a quieter experience

Features & amenities

Highlights

⭐ Picnics

Accessibility

♿ Wheelchair accessible entrance♿ Wheelchair accessible parking lot

Amenities

🧺 Picnic tables🚻 Public restroom

Family & Children

👶 Good for kids👶 Kid-friendly hikes
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